Studies are important.

Yesterday I had a bit of an "I Hate the People's Republic" Day. It started when I took and miserably failed my language placement. This was no surprise, but if you know me, you know how much I hate failure.

Then I went to the Bank of China to withdraw money using a cash advance on my credit/debit card. I got a number and waited for over an hour and a half. Then I proudly walked up to the desk, gave them my card, number, and passport, and asked for 30,000 kwai. The man looked at my Batman card and told me it was a debit card, to use it at the ATM. I told him I'm well aware of the uses of the ATM, but I certainly can't get 30,000 kwai from one. I told him I know it's a debit card, but the MasterCard symbol on the corner implies that it can be run as credit. That's what I wanted them to do. Run a 30,000 kwai credit, give me the money, and let my checking account pay it back. That's the essence of a cash advance. He told me that there was an ATM outside, and that I should use it out there. I told him I've done a cash advance at that bank before, and I know they can do it. He told me to use the ATM outside to withdraw cash. I reminded him again that I know about the ATM, but that it won't give me enough money. He told me to use the ATM. I sighed heavily and said, "Right." And I left.

After lunch I took a nap. Then, when my roommate came in, he asked if I was going to go somewhere. I told him, "China isn't being very nice to me today, so I'm not being very nice to China." Which is stupid, I admit, but there is some serious culture stressing going on. Then we went to WuMart (laugh if you must, but it's a lifeline) and bought sundry things. I bought food, and I am only going out today if I choose to. I have some instant noodles, biscotti, juice, water, and chips. I also have a teapot to make hot water. I'm kind of planning on reading Harry Potter 7 and watching The Office (which I bought on iTunes), and otherwise being a bum today. It's because I have stuff I must do tomorrow and Sunday mornings, and I need a day of rest.

T